While some snobby travel types may scoff at the mere mention of Bratislava, I loved it there. I’m a little biased as I harbour a profound love for all things Eastern Europe, but I spent a few happy hours enjoying the market, the medieval architecture and people watching (there were more locals than tourists). I long to return not only to eat at the UFO Taste Restaurant but to explore more of this capital that’s been labelled as Europe’s comeback kid.

After I stopped taking pictures of all the surrounding buildings, I decided it was time get some food and drink. There were actually line-ups at most of the stalls, mostly locals who came to eat at the Christmas market during their lunch. I was secretly jealous of them, lunch options at home in Toronto were food courts comprised of fast food chains like McDonalds and KFC while these guys were drinking mulled wine and eating delicious sandwiches.

And look, candy apples! So adorable.

This guy was all smiles. Perhaps the giant Santa mural keeps him in good cheer all day.

I couldn’t resist buying a pork and onion filled sandwich from these guys wearing a Santa hat and reindeer antlers.

It may not look like much, but this was really (and I mean really) tasty.

Of course I then went for the mulled wine. This is the BEST cup of mulled wine I’ve ever had.

Some of the more unique items available for purchase.

So what is it about this Christmas market in Bratislava that I love so much? Aside from the several very tall, dark and handsome men I spied, the fact that it’s not so touristy resonates well with me. The roughness about it is also appealing – the cheesy paper, plastic cups, the lack of pretension and simplicity of it all stole my heart. I’ll be back to visit this comeback kid!

If you’re looking for something to do in Bratislava, I’d suggest saving your visit for Christmastime when you can take in this cute little Christmas market!

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13 Comments

Love, love, love a good Christmas market and these photos have convinced me. We’re with you on that one, too – we love all things Eastern Europe. Sadly, we didn’t make it to Bratislava on our little route through the area but at least we’ve got somewhere (and a few other Eastern European cities) to visit next time. We don’t do travel snobbery – we’ll go anywhere! 😉
Julia

@Turkey’s For Life – Glad that I was able to convince you. I adore Eastern Europe .. I’m intrigued by the dark history and love the roughness about some of the more remote destinations. Hope you make it to Bratislava soon. 🙂

@James – I think you can make it as well! Maybe give that a whirl? Agree, it’s realllyyyy good. 🙂

[…] one of the main meeting points for locals and tourists alike. It’s also the location of the small Bratislava Christmas market which is a great alternative to overcrowded Christmas markets in nearby Vienna and […]

I’m totally addicted to European Christmas markets. Was hoping to get to Bratislava on my trip earlier this month, but will have to save it for next year (hopefully). The pork and onion sandwich does look irresistible!

@Cathy – I’m missing the markets this year as I’m home in Toronto! I hope to be in Berlin next year for Christmas and new years and can’t wait to experience them again. So I completetly understand your addiction. Hope you make it to this market in Bratislava, it’s charming! And yes, that sandwich was oh so yummy.

Cheryl Howard

A world travel and expat living blog to inspire you to travel more or even move abroad.

Over 44,000 people follow my round the world travels and expat adventures at home in Berlin. My wanderlust has taken me 38 countries, stretching across four continents. Upon falling in love with Europe, I left Canada, quitting my job, selling everything I own, and moving to Berlin. When I’m not jetting off on a weekend getaway, I work as an Agile Coach by day and travel blogger by night.